Vehicle camera module system

Abstract

This utility model provides a camera module system for a vehicle, comprising: a base, one side of which is connected to a vehicle and the other side of which is a fixing part forming a rotation axis; a cover portion, including a lower cover portion arranged such that one side of the fixing part passes through the fixing part and an upper cover portion joined to the upper part of the lower cover portion; a camera module, disposed at the front end of the other side of the cover portion, for capturing images of the side or rear of the vehicle; a motor housing, disposed inside the cover portion for the fixing part to pass through, and capable of rotating relative to the base within a set angle range; a drive portion, centered on the fixing part, for providing power to the motor housing during relative rotation; and a fixing module, configured to be fixed to the fixing part in electric mode so as to rotate the motor housing relative to the power of the drive portion, or to selectively rotate the motor housing relative to the fixing part by external force in manual mode.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to a vehicle camera module system, specifically a vehicle camera module system that is positioned on the side of a vehicle to capture images of the side or rear of the vehicle, and can be folded and arranged on a base. Background Technology

[0002] Typically, vehicles are equipped with an interior rearview mirror to allow the driver to see what's behind the vehicle, and exterior rearview mirrors on both sides to allow the driver to see what's behind and to the sides. Drivers can use the visibility provided by the interior and exterior rearview mirrors to judge surrounding vehicles and pedestrians, and to perform maneuvers such as reversing, overtaking, and changing lanes.

[0003] Recently, in order to reduce air resistance during vehicle operation and lower the possibility of damage from external impacts, camera module systems (CMS) are being used to replace exterior rearview mirrors. Since the images of the vehicle's surroundings obtained by the camera module system are displayed on a display device installed inside the vehicle, the driver can easily monitor the conditions around the vehicle.

[0004] Additionally, the camera module system deploys while the vehicle is in motion, allowing the driver to be aware of the vehicle's surroundings. However, when the vehicle is parked or passing through narrow spaces, the camera module system needs to be folded towards the vehicle's side to prevent damage or to ensure sufficient space around the vehicle. In this situation, the driver can use an actuator or manually rotate the camera module system.

[0005] However, the neck connecting the vehicle and the camera module system detracts from the aesthetics. Furthermore, the thickness of the actuator that enables automatic rotation makes it difficult to achieve a slim camera module system.

[0006] [Existing Technical Documents] [Patent Documents] (Patent Document 0001) Korean Utility Model Publication No. 20-1997-0033618 (July 26, 1997) Utility Model Content

[0007] This invention is proposed to solve the above-mentioned problems. More specifically, the purpose of this invention is to provide a vehicle camera module system that is thinly mounted on the side of a vehicle to capture images of the side or rear of the vehicle, and can be folded on a base.

[0008] To achieve the objectives described above, this utility model provides a vehicle camera module system, comprising: a base, a fixing part connected to a vehicle on one side and forming a rotation axis on the other side; a cover portion, including a lower cover portion arranged to pass through the fixing part on one side and an upper cover portion joined to the upper part of the lower cover portion; a camera module disposed at the front end of the other side of the cover portion for capturing images of the side or rear of the vehicle; a motor housing disposed inside the cover portion for the fixing part to pass through, and capable of rotating relative to the base within a set angle range; a drive unit, centered on the fixing part, providing power to the motor housing during relative rotation; and a fixing module configured to be fixed to the fixing part in electric mode so as to rotate the motor housing relative to the power of the drive unit, or to selectively rotate the motor housing relative to the fixing part by external force in manual mode.

[0009] The drive unit may include: a motor that generates power; and at least one gear module that operates in conjunction with the rotation of the motor.

[0010] The fixing module may include: a driven gear connected inside the motor housing in such a way that the fixing part passes through the interior, thereby meshing with the gear module; a snap plate arranged to pass through the front end of the fixing part; a snap fastener for fixing the snap plate to the front end of the fixing part; and an elastic member for elastically supporting the driven gear and the snap plate.

[0011] The fixing module may include a torque plate arranged outside the motor housing to interfere with the driven gear.

[0012] Either the torque plate or the driven gear may be provided with a protrusion that protrudes toward the other, and the other may be formed with a groove in a manner corresponding to the protrusion.

[0013] The protrusion and the groove can be arranged along the circumferential direction of the driven gear, such that the contacting surfaces are arranged in a direction orthogonal to the circumferential direction.

[0014] The motor housing may include: a lower housing disposed at the lower part of the drive unit; and an upper housing joined to the upper part of the lower housing in a manner that surrounds the drive unit.

[0015] The lower housing may include a first stop member that protrudes around the through hole through the fixing part in a manner that allows it to be inserted into the base.

[0016] The base may include: a center plate, which causes the fixing part to protrude upward; a lower plate, configured to cover one side of the center plate; and an upper plate, configured to cover the other side, which is opposite to the lower plate, with the center plate as a reference.

[0017] The upper plate or the upper plate and the center plate may be formed with an arc-shaped first guide groove for the first stop to be inserted and moved, thereby restricting the rotation of the motor housing within a predetermined range along the first guide groove.

[0018] The lower housing may include a second stop protruding around the through hole through the fixing part in a manner that is inserted into the torque plate.

[0019] The torque plate may be formed with a second guide groove, which restricts the rotation area of ​​the second stop within a predetermined range when the second stop is inserted into the outer contour area of ​​the upper surface and rotates in electric mode.

[0020] The first stop and the second stop can be arranged in a range that does not overlap with each other in the circumferential direction relative to the driven gear.

[0021] The first guide groove is formed with a set range larger than the second guide groove.

[0022] The torque plate may include: an outer protrusion, which protrudes at equal intervals along the circumferential direction of the driven gear in the outer contour region of the lower surface; and a first inner protrusion, which protrudes further inward than the outer protrusion.

[0023] The center plate may have a plurality of outer grooves corresponding to the outer protrusion and an inner groove corresponding to the first inner protrusion.

[0024] The surfaces of the outer protrusion and the outer groove that contact each other along the circumferential direction can be formed as inclined surfaces, so that they are inclined relative to the circumferential direction.

[0025] The torque plate can be arranged such that, when the cover is rotated in manual mode, the motor housing and the driven gear rotate together around the fixed part while being elastically separated along the inclined surface away from the center plate.

[0026] The center plate may include a second inner protrusion that interferes with the first inner protrusion during the process of the motor housing rotating in manual mode from the unfolded state along the reverse folding direction.

[0027] The first guide groove can be configured such that, in the unfolded state of the motor housing, the first stop can move a greater range along the reverse folding direction than the second guide groove.

[0028] Other specific details are provided in the detailed description and accompanying drawings.

[0029] The vehicle camera module system according to an embodiment of the present invention has the following effects.

[0030] First, aesthetics can be enhanced by creating a thin, streamlined form that protrudes from the vehicle or its doors.

[0031] Second, while choosing a thin structure, a folding structure can also be included.

[0032] Third, in both electric and manual modes, it can automatically align with the unfolded state as a reference position while being driven.

[0033] Fourth, by improving the vehicle camera module system in a slimmer way, wind noise can be reduced, fuel efficiency can be improved, and overall costs can be reduced.

[0034] The effects of this utility model are not limited to those mentioned above. Those skilled in the art can clearly understand other effects not mentioned through the description in the claims. Attached Figure Description

[0035] In addition to the detailed description of the preferred embodiments of this application described below, the above brief description can be better understood when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Preferred embodiments are shown in the drawings for illustrative purposes. However, it should be understood that this application is not limited to the precise arrangements and means shown.

[0036] Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing a portion of a vehicle equipped with a camera module system for vehicles according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] Figure 2 It is shown Figure 1 The image shows a 3D view of the vehicle camera module system.

[0038] Figure 3 It is to decompose and show Figure 2 An exploded perspective view of the vehicle camera module system shown.

[0039] Figure 4 It is shown Figure 2 The cross-sectional view of region A-A' of the vehicle camera module system shown.

[0040] Figure 5 Shown from the top Figure 3 The diagram shows a perspective view of the driven gear, lower cover, and torque plate of the vehicle camera module system.

[0041] Figure 6 Shown from the bottom Figure 5 The diagram shows a perspective view of the driven gear, lower cover, and torque plate of the vehicle camera module system.

[0042] Figure 7 It shows the removal Figure 2 The image shows a perspective view of the cover of the vehicle camera module system in its unfolded state.

[0043] Figure 8 It is shown Figure 7 The image shows a 3D view of the vehicle camera module system in electric mode with a portion of it folded.

[0044] Figures 9 to 11 It is shown Figure 7 and Figure 8 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of the vehicle camera module system being folded.

[0045] Figure 12 It is shown Figure 7 The image shown is a 3D view of the vehicle camera module system in manual mode with a portion of it folded.

[0046] Figures 13 to 15 It is shown Figure 12 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of the vehicle camera module system being folded.

[0047] Figures 16 to 18 This is a cross-sectional view showing the process of manually reversing the folding of the vehicle's camera module system in its unfolded state.

[0048] Figure 19 It is shown Figure 11 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of the vehicle camera module system being folded in electric mode.

[0049] Figure 20 It is shown Figure 19 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of the vehicle camera module system unfolding in manual mode.

[0050] Figure 21 It is shown Figure 19 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of the vehicle camera module system in manual mode, aligned in electric mode after it has been deployed.

[0051] Figure 22 It is shown Figure 15 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of the vehicle camera module system being folded in manual mode.

[0052] Figure 23 It is shown Figure 22 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of the vehicle camera module system in electric mode with the camera aligned.

[0053] Figure 24 It is shown Figure 23 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of the vehicle camera module system unfolding in electric mode.

[0054] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures Detailed Implementation

[0055] Since this utility model can be modified in many ways and has many embodiments, specific embodiments will be shown and described in the accompanying drawings.

[0056] However, this does not limit the present invention to a specific embodiment, and should be understood to include all modifications, equivalents and even substitutions contained within the concept and technical scope of the present invention.

[0057] Ordinal terms such as “first” and “second” can be used to describe a variety of constituent elements, but these constituent elements are not limited by these terms.

[0058] The terminology is used only to distinguish one constituent element from another.

[0059] For example, without departing from the scope of the present invention, the second constituent element may be referred to as the first constituent element, and similarly, the first constituent element may be referred to as the second constituent element.

[0060] The term “and / or” includes a combination of multiple associated listed items or any one of multiple associated listed items.

[0061] When a component is referred to as "connected" or "coupled" to another component, it should be understood that it can be directly connected or coupled to another component, but there may be other components in between.

[0062] Conversely, when it is mentioned that a constituent element is "directly connected" or "directly coupled" with another constituent element, it should be understood that there are no other constituent elements in between.

[0063] The terminology used in this application is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to limit the scope of the invention.

[0064] Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular form also includes the plural form.

[0065] In this application, terms such as “comprising” or “having” should be understood as indicating the presence of the described features, figures, steps, operations, constituent elements, components, or combinations thereof, without pre-excluding the possibility of the presence or addition of one or more other features or figures, steps, operations, constituent elements, components, or combinations thereof.

[0066] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Unless otherwise specified, the same or corresponding constituent elements will be given the same reference numerals, and repeated descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0067] Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing a portion of a vehicle equipped with a camera module system for vehicles according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 It is shown Figure 1 The image shows a 3D view of the vehicle camera module system.

[0068] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 According to an embodiment of the present invention, the vehicle camera module system 10 can be respectively disposed on both sides of the exterior of the vehicle to replace the existing side mirror function. For example, the vehicle camera module system 10 can provide a digital side mirror function by using the camera module 100 to capture images of the side or rear of the vehicle and providing the captured images to the user in real time.

[0069] The following description takes the case where the vehicle camera module system 10 is installed in the area adjacent to the left (or driver's side) door 2 of the vehicle 1 and the A-pillar as an example, and the installation position of the vehicle camera module system 10 is not limited to this.

[0070] The vehicle camera module system 10 may include a base 200 and a cover 300.

[0071] The base 200 can be fixed to the vehicle 1 or the door 2 on one side, and a cover portion 300 is attached to the other side. A rotation axis RA can be arranged vertically between the base 200 and the cover portion 300, and the cover portion 300 can be attached to the base 200 in a manner that allows relative rotation through folding. A camera module 100 can be built into the front end of the outer side of the cover portion 300, allowing it to take pictures facing the left or rear of the vehicle. Furthermore, the images captured by the camera module 100 can be displayed so that the user can review the images in real time.

[0072] Of course, in Figure 1 and Figure 2 In this paper, a structure in which the cover portion 300 is arranged on the left side of the vehicle is shown and described by way of example. When applied to the structure of the vehicle camera module system 10 arranged on the right side of the vehicle, the rotation direction can be applied in the opposite direction with the rotation axis RA as a reference.

[0073] exist Figure 2 In the middle, the cover portion 300 can be unfolded relative to the base 200. If in Figure 2 In the state of rotation, the cover 300 is rotated counterclockwise around the rotation axis RA, so that the outer front end of the cover 300 or the camera module 100 can be folded close to the vehicle body or door 2 of the vehicle 1.

[0074] The vehicle camera module system 10 according to this utility model can be designed with a slim structure, wherein the maximum height of the cover portion 300, which has the highest height, is formed to be less than about 30 mm.

[0075] Figure 3 It is to decompose and show Figure 2 The image shown is an exploded perspective view of the vehicle camera module system. Figure 4 It is shown Figure 2 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of region A-A' of the vehicle camera module system. Figure 5 Shown from the top Figure 3 The diagram shows a perspective view of the driven gear, lower cover, and torque plate of the vehicle camera module system. Figure 6 Shown from the bottom Figure 5 The diagram shows a perspective view of the driven gear, lower cover, and torque plate of the vehicle camera module system.

[0076] Reference Figures 3 to 6 The vehicle camera module system 10 may include a camera module 100, a base 200, a cover 300, a motor housing 400, a drive unit 500, and a fixing module 600.

[0077] First, the base 200 may include a center plate 210, a lower plate 220, and an upper plate 230.

[0078] The center plate 210 is made of metal and provides rigidity to support the cover portion 300 by the vehicle. One side of the center plate 210 can be fixed to the vehicle, and a fixing part 211 can be provided on the other side.

[0079] The fixing part 211 can be integrally formed with the center plate 210, or it can be assembled. The fixing module 600 can be attached to the fixing part 211, and the fixing module 600 can be arranged to remain fixed to the fixing part 211, or rotate about the fixing part 211. The fixing part 211 can have a generally cylindrical shape and can protrude upward from the other side of the center plate 210.

[0080] Furthermore, the lower plate 220 can be arranged to cover one side of the center plate 210. In this embodiment, the case where the lower plate 220 is arranged to cover the lower part of the center plate 210 will be described as an example.

[0081] Furthermore, the upper plate 230 can be arranged to cover the other side of the center plate 210. In this embodiment, the case where the upper plate 230 covers the upper part of the center plate 210 is described as an example. That is, the upper plate 230 and the lower plate 220 can be joined or attached vertically to the upper and lower parts of the center plate 210, or they can be double-injection molded. The lower plate 220 and the upper plate 230 can be made of synthetic resin materials or polycarbonate materials.

[0082] Of course, although not shown in the figure, the upper plate 230 and the lower plate 220 can be configured to be joined to each other in the horizontal direction on both sides of the center plate 210.

[0083] A portion of the upper surface of the center plate 210 on the other side, where the fixing part 211 is located, can be partially exposed through the first through hole 231 formed in the upper plate 230.

[0084] In the base 200, the center plate 210, the lower plate 220, and the upper plate 230 can be formed into a relatively thin sheet shape, and the height of the lower plate 220 and the upper plate 230 in the combined state, excluding the fixing part 211, can be approximately within the range of 20 to 25% of the overall height of the cover part 300.

[0085] In addition, the cover portion 300 may include: a lower cover 310, forming a second through hole 311 through which the fixing portion 211 passes; and an upper cover 320, which is attached to the upper part of the lower cover 310 and forms an overall appearance.

[0086] The lower cover 310 may include: a first region A1 that contacts the upper surface of the upper plate 230 on the other side; and a second region A2 that bends and extends from the first region A1 to be arranged at the same height as the lower plate 220.

[0087] The first region A1 can be arranged to at least partially overlap with the upper plate 230, and can be formed to have the same width as the upper plate 230. A second through hole 311 can be formed in the first region A1.

[0088] Furthermore, the bottom surface height of the second region A2 can be configured to be relatively lower than that of the first region A1. That is, the first region A1 and the second region A2 can be arranged in a layered manner.

[0089] The connecting region A3 between the first region A1 and the second region A2 can be formed as a curved surface to correspond to the arc shape formed on the other front end of the base 200. The curved surface of the connecting region A3 can be formed to correspond to a rotation radius that does not interfere with each other when the cover portion 300 rotates relative to the base 200 with the fixing portion 211 as the center.

[0090] Since the height of the second region A2 is relatively lower than that of the first region A1, the motor 510 or camera module 100 of the drive unit 500 can be located inside.

[0091] Furthermore, the upper cover 320 can be configured such that the height of the region corresponding to the second region A2 of the lower cover 310 is relatively higher. The upper cover 320 may also be equipped with a camera module cover 321 that covers the exterior of the region where the camera module 100 is attached.

[0092] Furthermore, the motor housing 400 may include an upper housing 410 and a lower housing 420. In electric mode, the motor housing 400 can rotate relative to the fixed module 600 in a folding or unfolding direction while the drive unit 500 located inside generates power.

[0093] The upper housing 410 may have a third through hole 411 formed on one side for the fixing part 211 to pass through, and the drive part 500 is housed inside.

[0094] Furthermore, the lower housing 420 has a fourth through hole 421 formed on one side for the fixing part 211 to pass through, and is connected to the lower part of the upper housing 410 to support the rotation of the drive part 500. In the motor housing 400, a portion of the structure of the fixing module 600 (described later) can be sandwiched between the third through hole 411 of the upper housing 410 and the fourth through hole 421 of the lower housing 420.

[0095] The lower housing 420 can selectively interfere with the fixed module 600 along the folding direction depending on whether it is in electric or manual mode.

[0096] Furthermore, the drive unit 500 can provide power when the motor housing 400 rotates relative to the fixed part 211 in the folding direction.

[0097] The drive unit 500 may include a motor 510 and a gear module 520.

[0098] The motor 510 can be located between the lower housing 420 and the upper housing 410.

[0099] Furthermore, the gear module 520 may include: a worm gear 521, coupled to the rotating shaft of the motor 510; a first reduction gear 522, meshing with the worm gear 521; a second reduction gear 523, meshing with the first reduction gear 522; and a third reduction gear 524, meshing with the second reduction gear 523 and engaging with the fixed module 600. The power generated by the drive unit 500 can be transmitted to the fixed module 600 in electric mode, causing the motor housing 400 to rotate in the folding or unfolding direction.

[0100] Furthermore, since the power transmission of the drive unit 500 is disconnected in manual mode and the rotation of the gear module 520 is restricted, it can rotate together with the fixing module 600 around the fixing unit 211 in a folding, unfolding, or reverse folding manner.

[0101] Furthermore, the fixing module 600 can be arranged such that, in electric mode, it is fixed around the fixing part 211 so that the motor housing 400 rotates relative to the folding or unfolding direction by the power of the drive part 500, or in manual mode, it rotates together around the fixing part while the cover part 300 is pressed by external force.

[0102] The fixed module 600 may include a driven gear 610, a snap plate 620, a snap fastener 621, an elastic component 630, and a torque-passing plate 640.

[0103] Driven gear 610 is disposed inside motor housing 400 with fixed part 211 as center, and can be arranged to mesh with third reduction gear 524.

[0104] The driven gear 610 may include: a first main body 611, which is generally cylindrical and arranged as a through fixing part 211; and a gear part 612, which protrudes radially on the outer peripheral surface of one side of the first main body 611 and meshes with the third reduction gear 524.

[0105] Furthermore, the snap plate 620 can be attached to the upper side of the driven gear 610 at the upper part of the fixing part 211 and by the snap member 621 to prevent it from detaching from the fixing part 211.

[0106] The elastic member 630 can pass through the fixing part 211 and is disposed between the buckle plate 620 and the driven gear 610. The elastic member 630 can have a wave spring structure. Therefore, the elastic member 630 can always provide an elastic restoring force between the buckle plate 620 and the driven gear 610.

[0107] Furthermore, the upper part of the torque plate 640 can be arranged to contact and interfere with the lower part of the first main body 611 of the driven gear 610, and the lower part can be arranged to contact and interfere with the base 200. For example, the torque plate 640 can contact the center plate 210 through the second through hole 311 and the first through hole 231.

[0108] The torque plate 640 may include: a second main body 641 inserted around the fixing part 211; and a flange 642 protruding along the circumferential direction of the second main body 641.

[0109] In this embodiment, either the lower part of the first main body 611 or the upper part of the second main body 641 may be provided with a protrusion 613 protruding toward the other, and the other may be formed with a groove 643 corresponding to the protrusion 613. In this embodiment, the case in which the protrusion 613 is provided at the lower part of the first main body 611 and the groove 643 is formed at the upper part of the second main body 641 will be described as an example.

[0110] The protrusion 613 and the recess 643 can be arranged such that the surfaces that contact along the circumferential direction of the driven gear 610 are in a direction orthogonal to the circumferential direction. That is, the protrusion 613 and the recess 643 can be connected so that the driven gear 610 and the torque plate 640 are always fixed together or rotate together. Of course, the driven gear 610 and the torque plate 640 can be joined together or formed as one piece by a fastening structure.

[0111] Furthermore, the lower housing 420 may include a first stop 422 and a second stop 423.

[0112] The first stop 422 can protrude by being inserted into the first guide groove 212, which is formed in the same arc shape in the center plate 210 and the upper plate 230, respectively. The first stop 422 can be arranged on the outer contour of the lower surface of the lower housing 420.

[0113] The first guide groove 212 is located further outward than the first through hole 231, and the first stop 422 is arranged accordingly, with its movable range set according to the range of the first guide groove 212. The first stop 422 can be inserted into the first guide groove 212 by passing through the lower cover 310, at which point the lower cover 310 can form a hole 312 corresponding to the shape of the first stop 422, allowing the first stop 422 to pass through.

[0114] For example, the first stop 422 can be located in the central region of the first guide groove 212 in the unfolded state. Furthermore, when the cover portion 300 is folded, the first stop 422 can move to one end of the first guide groove 212, and when the cover portion 300 is folded in the opposite direction, the first stop 422 can move to the other end of the first guide groove 212.

[0115] Furthermore, the second stop 423 can protrude by being inserted into the torque plate 640. The torque plate 640 can have an arc-shaped second guide groove 644 formed on the upper surface of the flange 642, and the second stop 423 can be inserted into the second guide groove 644. When folding or unfolding in electric mode, the torque plate 640 can limit the rotation range of the second stop 423 within the range of the second guide groove 644.

[0116] Of course, the second guide groove 644 can be configured such that its movable range is smaller than that of the first guide groove 212.

[0117] Furthermore, the first stop 422 and the second stop 423 can be arranged in a range that does not overlap with each other in the circumferential direction relative to the driven gear 610. For example, compared to the first stop 422, the second stop 423 can be configured to be located relatively closer to the fourth through hole 421 in the lower part of the lower housing 420.

[0118] In addition, the torque plate 640 may include: an outer protrusion 645 that protrudes from the outer contour region of the lower surface of the flange 642; and a first inner protrusion 646 that protrudes further inward than the outer protrusion 645.

[0119] The outer protrusions 645 may have multiple protrusions at equal intervals along the circumferential direction with the fixing part 211 as the center on the lower surface of the flange 642. In this embodiment, the case in which three outer protrusions 645 protrude at 120° intervals from each other will be described as an example.

[0120] The center plate 210 may have multiple outer grooves 213 corresponding to the outer protrusions 645. That is, the torque plate 640 may be arranged to contact the upper surface of the center plate 210 surrounding the fixing part 211. In this case, the torque plate 640 can always be kept in a state of being pressed towards the center plate 210 by the elastic restoring force of the elastic member 630.

[0121] In other words, the driven gear 610 and the torque plate 640 are combined such that the fixing part 211 passes through the interior, but since there is no structure that interferes with the outer peripheral surface of the fixing part 211 in the folding or unfolding direction, the state of being combined with the fixing part 211 can be easily maintained. However, the torque plate 640 is arranged to apply pressure in the direction of the center plate 210, and while the outer protrusion 645 of the torque plate 640 is inserted into the outer groove 213 of the center plate 210, the driven gear 610 and the torque plate 640 do not rotate in the folding or unfolding direction on the fixing part 211, and the power of the drive part 500 can be transmitted to the motor housing 400.

[0122] At this time, the surfaces of the outer protrusion 645 and the outer groove 213 that contact each other along the circumferential direction of the torque plate 640 can be formed as inclined surfaces 647, so that they are inclined relative to the circumferential direction. Therefore, when the drive unit 500 stops and the cover unit 300 rotates in the folding or unfolding direction while an external force is applied, the torque plate 640 can be arranged to rotate around the fixing part 211 while being spaced apart along the inclined surface 647 away from the center plate 210.

[0123] Furthermore, the first inner protrusion 646 may be positioned relatively inward on the lower surface of the torque plate 640 compared to the outer protrusion 645. The center plate 210 may have an inner groove 214 corresponding to the first inner protrusion 646. Therefore, with the outer protrusion 645 inserted into the outer groove 213, the first inner protrusion 646 may be inserted into the inner groove 214.

[0124] In addition, the center plate 210 may include a second inner protrusion 215 that interferes with the first inner protrusion 646 of the torque plate 640 when the motor housing 400 is in the unfolded state and is rotated in the reverse folding direction in manual mode.

[0125] Figure 7 It shows the removal Figure 2 The image shows a perspective view of the vehicle camera module system's cover in its unfolded state. Figure 8 It is shown Figure 7 The image shown is a 3D view of the vehicle camera module system in electric mode with a portion folded. Figures 9 to 11 It is shown Figure 7 and Figure 8 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of the vehicle camera module system being folded.

[0126] Reference Figures 7 to 11 In electric mode, folding and unfolding can be achieved using the power of the drive unit 500. Figure 7 and Figure 9 Showing the unfolded state, Figure 8 and Figure 10 It shows the partially folded state. Figure 11 This shows the state when it is completely folded.

[0127] like Figure 9 As shown, in the unfolded state, if power is applied to the drive unit 500 to rotate it in the folding direction, then as... Figure 10 As shown, since the third reduction gear 524 rotates relative to the gear section 612, the lower housing 420 can be folded around the fixing section 211. At this time, the second stop 423 can move from one side to the other inside the second guide groove 644. Of course, in electric mode, the process of rotating from the folded state to the unfolded state can be performed in reverse order.

[0128] Figure 12 It is shown Figure 7 The image shown is a 3D view of the vehicle camera module system in manual mode with a portion folded. Figures 13 to 15 It is shown Figure 12 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of the vehicle camera module system being folded.

[0129] Reference Figures 12 to 15 In manual mode, the cover 300 can be folded or unfolded by applying pressure with external force.

[0130] like Figure 13 As shown, in the unfolded state, if an external force is applied along the folding direction, such as Figure 14 As shown, the torque plate 640 will generate a rotational force along the folding direction due to the interference of the second stop 423 and the second guide groove 644. This positive rotational force will cause the torque plate 640 to be separated from the center plate 210, while driving the driven gear 610 to rise together with the fixed part 211 as the center. Figure 14 The diagram shows the state in which the torque plate 640 and the driven gear 610 rotate in the folding direction, and that forced folding can be achieved while sliding occurs between the upper surface of the center plate 210 and the outer protrusion 645 of the torque plate 640.

[0131] At this time, the third reduction gear 524 will remain engaged with the gear section 612 of the driven gear 610 and will only rotate in the folding direction. In the state of losing the power of the drive section 500, the rotation of each gear module 520 can be restricted.

[0132] Figure 15In manual mode, the folding process is completed. At this time, the first stop 422 interferes with one side of the first guide groove 212, further restricting the folding rotation in manual mode. Of course, the process of rotating from the folded state to the unfolded state in manual mode can be performed in reverse order.

[0133] Figures 16 to 18 This is a cross-sectional view showing the process of manually reversing the folding of the vehicle's camera module system in its unfolded state.

[0134] Reference Figures 16 to 18 Reverse folding indicates a state where the object rotates from the unfolded state in the opposite direction to the folding direction.

[0135] That is, when a reverse fold occurs in manual mode, the over-torque plate 640 generates a rotational force in the reverse folding direction through the interference of the second stop 423 and the second guide groove 644. This reverse rotational force can provide rotation in the reverse folding direction while separating the over-torque plate 640 away from the center plate 210.

[0136] At this time, the first inner protrusion 646 can rotate adjacent to the second inner protrusion 215 along the unfolding direction. If the first inner protrusion 646 contacts the second inner protrusion 215, interference will occur between them, which can limit the reverse folding rotation of the torque plate 640.

[0137] Figure 18 This illustrates a state where reverse folding rotation is restricted while the first inner protrusion 646 and the second inner protrusion 215 are in contact with each other. Of course, even... Figure 18 In this state, the first stop 422 mentioned above can also restrict reverse folding rotation while interfering with the other side of the first guide groove 212.

[0138] Figure 19 It is shown Figure 11 The diagram shown is a cross-sectional view of the vehicle camera module system being folded in electric mode. Figure 20 It is shown Figure 19 The diagram shown is a cross-sectional view of the vehicle camera module system unfolding in manual mode. Figure 21 It is shown Figure 19 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of the vehicle camera module system in manual mode, aligned in electric mode after it has been deployed.

[0139] Reference Figures 19 to 21 The vehicle camera module system 10 can also be driven by a combination of electric and manual modes.

[0140] For example, it can be folded in electric mode and unfolded in manual mode.

[0141] In this case, the folding process in electric mode can be achieved through... Figures 9 to 11 This is achieved through a process.

[0142] When the cover is folded in electric mode and then unfolded in manual mode, since the third reduction gear 524 and the gear part 612 of the driven gear 610 are engaged and do not rotate with each other, when the cover part 300 is subjected to external force and causes unfolding rotation, although there is no interference between the second stop 423 and the second guide groove 644, unfolding rotation can be achieved between the driven gear 610 and the torque plate 640.

[0143] The torque plate 640 rotates upwards while being separated from the center plate 210, and even when fully extended, the torque plate 640 remains separated upwards from the center plate 210. Of course, during this manual deployment process, the rotation can also be restricted while the first inner protrusion 646 contacts the second inner protrusion 215.

[0144] After unfolding in manual mode, in order to re-align the torque plate 640 to the correct position, alignment can be achieved by rotating it in the folding direction in electric mode so that the torque plate 640 is in close contact with the center plate 210.

[0145] Figure 22 It is shown Figure 15 The diagram shown is a cross-sectional view of the vehicle camera module system being folded in manual mode. Figure 23 It is shown Figure 22 The diagram shown is a cross-sectional view of the vehicle camera module system in electric mode, indicating its alignment. Figure 24 It is shown Figure 23 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of the vehicle camera module system unfolding in electric mode.

[0146] Reference Figures 22 to 24 For example, folding can be achieved in manual mode and unfolding can be achieved in electric mode.

[0147] In this case, the folding process in manual mode can be achieved through... Figures 13 to 15 This is achieved through a process.

[0148] In the case of unfolding in electric mode after folding in manual mode, the third reduction gear 524 will cause the driven gear 610 to rotate, so that the torque plate 640 moves to the correct position of the center plate 210. If the power of the drive unit 500 is continuously transmitted while the torque plate 640 and the driven gear 610 are fixed on the center plate 210, the motor housing 400 will rotate relative to the fixed module 600, so unfolding can be completed in electric mode.

[0149] Therefore, the vehicle camera module system according to the embodiments of the present invention has the following effects: aesthetics can be improved by constructing the part protruding from the vehicle or the vehicle door in a slim manner, and a folding structure can be included while selecting a slim structure. It can automatically align with the unfolded state as a reference position while driving in both electric and manual modes. Furthermore, by improving the vehicle camera module system in a slim manner, wind noise can be reduced, fuel efficiency can be improved, and the overall cost can be reduced.

[0150] The present invention has been illustrated above with specific embodiments to demonstrate its technical concept. However, the present invention is not limited to the same structure and function as described in the specific embodiments. Various modifications can be implemented without departing from the scope of the present invention. Therefore, such modifications should also be considered to fall within the scope of the present invention, which should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A camera module system for a vehicle, characterized by, include: The base is connected to the vehicle on one side and has a fixing part that forms a rotating shaft on the other side; The cover portion includes a lower cover arranged such that one side of the fixing portion passes through it, and an upper cover joined to the upper portion of the lower cover. A camera module is located at the front end of the other side of the cover to capture images of the side or rear of the vehicle. The motor housing is arranged to pass through the fixing part inside the cover portion and is rotatable relative to the base within a set angle range; The drive unit, centered on the fixed part, provides power to the motor housing during relative rotation; as well as The fixing module is configured to be fixed to the fixing part in electric mode so as to rotate the motor housing relative to the power of the drive part, or to rotate selectively with respect to the fixing part and the motor housing by means of external force in manual mode.

2. The vehicle camera module system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The drive unit includes: Motors generate power; At least one gear module is linked to the motor as it rotates.

3. The vehicle camera module system according to claim 2, characterized in that, The fixing module includes: The driven gear is connected inside the motor housing in such a way that the fixing part passes through the interior, thereby meshing with the gear module; A snap-on plate is arranged to pass through the front end of the fixing part; A buckle is used to fix the buckle plate to the front end of the fixing part; An elastic component provides elastic support between the driven gear and the latching plate.

4. The vehicle camera module system according to claim 3, characterized in that, The fixing module includes: A torque plate is arranged outside the motor housing to interfere with the driven gear.

5. The vehicle camera module system according to claim 4, characterized in that, Either the torque plate or the driven gear has a protrusion that protrudes toward the other, and the other has a groove corresponding to the protrusion.

6. The vehicle camera module system according to claim 5, characterized in that, The protrusion and the groove are arranged along the circumferential direction of the driven gear, such that the contacting surfaces are arranged in a direction orthogonal to the circumferential direction.

7. The vehicle camera module system according to claim 5, characterized in that, The motor housing includes: The lower housing is located at the lower part of the drive unit; The upper housing is joined to the upper part of the lower housing in a manner that surrounds the drive unit.

8. The vehicle camera module system according to claim 7, characterized in that, The lower housing includes: The first stop protrudes around the through hole through the fixing part in a manner that allows it to be inserted into the base.

9. The vehicle camera module system according to claim 8, characterized in that, The base includes: A center plate that causes the fixing part to protrude upwards; The lower plate is configured to cover one side of the central plate; The upper plate is configured to cover the other side, which is opposite to the lower plate, with the central plate as a reference.

10. The vehicle camera module system according to claim 9, characterized in that, The upper plate or the upper plate and the center plate form an arc-shaped first guide groove for the first stop to be inserted and moved, thereby limiting the rotation of the motor housing within a predetermined range along the first guide groove.

11. The vehicle camera module system according to claim 10, characterized in that, The lower housing includes: The second stop protrudes around the through hole through the fixed part in a manner that it is inserted into the torque plate.

12. The vehicle camera module system according to claim 11, characterized in that, The torque plate is formed with a second guide groove. When the second stop is inserted into the outer contour area of ​​the upper surface and rotates in electric mode, the second guide groove restricts the rotation area of ​​the second stop within a predetermined range.

13. The vehicle camera module system according to claim 12, characterized in that, The first stop and the second stop are respectively arranged in a range that does not overlap with each other in the circumferential direction relative to the driven gear.

14. The vehicle camera module system according to claim 12, characterized in that, The first guide groove is formed with a set range larger than the second guide groove.

15. The vehicle camera module system according to claim 12, characterized in that, The over-torque plate includes: The outer protrusions protrude at equal intervals along the circumferential direction of the driven gear in the outer contour area of ​​the lower surface. The first inner protrusion protrudes further inward than the outer protrusion.

16. The vehicle camera module system according to claim 15, characterized in that, The center plate has a plurality of outer grooves corresponding to the outer protrusion and an inner groove corresponding to the first inner protrusion.

17. The vehicle camera module system according to claim 16, characterized in that, The surfaces of the outer protrusion and the outer groove that contact each other along the circumferential direction are formed as inclined surfaces, such that they are inclined relative to the circumferential direction.

18. The vehicle camera module system according to claim 17, characterized in that, The torque plate is arranged such that, when the cover is rotated in manual mode, the motor housing and the driven gear are elastically separated along the inclined surface away from the center plate, while the motor housing and the driven gear rotate together around the fixed part.

19. The vehicle camera module system according to claim 16, characterized in that, The central plate includes: The second inner protrusion interferes with the first inner protrusion during the manual rotation of the motor housing from the unfolded state along the reverse folding direction.

20. The vehicle camera module system according to claim 19, characterized in that, The first guide groove is formed such that, in the unfolded state of the motor housing, the range by which the first stop member can move along the reverse folding direction, which is opposite to the folding direction, is greater than that of the second guide groove.

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